Pygoscelis papua

Gentoo Penguin

75–90 cm
15–20 años
Preocupación menor
Sobre

Gentoo Penguin

The gentoo penguin is the third-largest penguin species and the fastest swimmer of all penguins, reaching speeds of up to 36 km/h. Easily recognised by their distinctive white head-stripe and bright orange-red bill, gentoos are found across the sub-Antarctic islands and the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. They are less gregarious than other Antarctic penguins, nesting in smaller, more dispersed colonies.

Tamaño

75–90 cm

Peso

4.5–8.5 kg

Esperanza de vida

15–20 años

Estado

Preocupación menor

Dónde encontrarlos

Mejores ubicaciones de buceo

Port Lockroy, AntártidaPuerto Neko, AntártidaIslas MalvinasIsla Georgia del Sur

Consejos de buceo

Gentoo penguins are often encountered while zodiac cruising and on shore visits. Underwater encounters during diving are possible but rare. They are curious and may approach divers. On land, stay on marked paths and allow penguins the right of way — they have priority on 'penguin highways'.

Mejor temporada

November–February (Antarctic summer), chicks visible December–February

Hábitat

Sub-Antarctic islands and northern Antarctic Peninsula. Nest on ice-free ground, beaches, and rocky outcrops.

Alimentación

Krill, fish (lanternfish, icefish), and squid
¿Sabías que?

Datos curiosos

1

They are the fastest underwater swimmers of all penguin species, reaching 36 km/h

2

Gentoo males propose to females by presenting them with a carefully chosen pebble

3

They can dive to over 200 metres and spend up to 7 minutes underwater

4

Their population is actually increasing, unlike many Antarctic species

Comienza tu aventura

¿Listo para bucear con este animal?

Explora nuestras expediciones en liveaboard a los mejores destinos de buceo